Sewing Pattern Review: Bella Sunshine Design's Clementine Top (and Dress!)

I always enjoy the ease of sewing Bella Sunshine Designs patterns - the Clementine is no exception. 

It features:

- A scoop neck

- 3 sleeve lengths (or sleeveless)

- Shirt to maxi dress lengths

- Plain or banded skirt options

- Full Bust Adjustment pattern pieces (if more than 3" difference between upper and full bust)

The instructions for putting together the bodice are similar to the Amelia Top, but the neck is a lot less revealing (office and big bust friendly without adjustments!) - much to Husband's dismay :).

I opted for a few shirt length tops, which also in turn helped use up some scrap pieces of fabric that were perfect for Clementine.

The "skirt" part is gathered, and the easiest part of construction - having a cute flattering flare that suits my body well. 

I graded part way down the bodice side down to the bottom of the bodice from a 4 to 12. TRUST your current measurements and circle them in the pattern guide for the perfect fit.  If you are unsure, Melissa or Danielle are great at determining your sizing based on upper & full bust, and waist/hip measurements. 

If you have a long or short torso, there is a shorten/lengthen line that will help the bodice bottom sit at your proper waist. 

I didn't alter anything, as I have a long torso for my 5'-2" frame (making it difficult to find swimsuits when I was younger - they all looked weird on me despite my toothpick size at the time). 

If you want a fun flattering top (or dress), this is a cute pattern that I've been able to wear at the office and at play (fabric pending). 

My first top is my I Lava You top - made from stretch cotton (black) and some Cotton Lycra I Lava You fabric I won during my first sew-a-long for on a Facebook page sponsored by the Fabric Geeks. This was the last of the Yard I won, but I managed to make 3 outfits that contain this cute summery fabric. 

I've paired the top with my Bella Sunshine Designs Sansa Pants - which are again, great for office wear or for play. And SO comfy. Who needs zippers, buttons, or uncomfortable waistbands in pants when you can wear some Sansas?

It's a fun shirt!

Deep thoughts of my next Clementine

Perfectly flattering and sits where I like it to

My second top was made with lovely grey chiffon with white dots from Fabricland and a cute feathered cotton lycra fabric from Okee Dokee Fabrics.  

This top is more whimsy, and a great use for scrap Chiffon or flowy fabrics for a different look and feel.

Love the co-ordination and flare

It was about -15 or -20 Celsius outside during photos - but I do it for Melissa, as she's awesome!

So, it's a lovely sew with a multitude of looks depending on fabric and length you decide to go.  

Sew up on your summer dress and shirt stash with light flowy fabrics and test out the plain and banded skirt options for your upcoming Clementines - they're all so pretty!

And remember to have fun while sewing - I sure do!